McVay's offense should help Gurley focus on running the ball

ST. LOUIS, MO - NOVEMBER 15: Todd Gurley #30 of the St. Louis Rams leaps over Antrel Rolle #26 of the Chicago Bears as he carries the ball in the first quarter at the Edward Jones Dome on November 15, 2015 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

Los Angeles Rams RB Todd Gurley’s rushing production dropped off in his second year in the league, the same year his role in the passing game increased. However, new Rams head coach Sean McVay used his backs for specific roles in the last two seasons, that applied to their individual strengths.

Redskins RB Chris Thompson was used as the receiving threat out of the backfield, as he led McVay’s backfield in targets over the last two seasons, but his rush attempts were at least 100 less than the lead back.

Never really known as a pass-catcher, before his injury in 2014, Gurley saw only 12 targets in six games at the University of Georgia.

The Rams brought in Lance Dunbar during free agency, who has seen more passing targets than rushing attempts over the last two seasons.